Ask a Scientist at the Pier 57 Discovery Tank (February 6)

Laugh and learn from local STEM experts during this series of informative and entertaining events.

Ask a Scientist invites participants to explore a fascinating science topic and engage in a live Q&A session with the experts. Hudson River Park is teaming up with Secret Science Club to offer this event in the Pier 57 Discovery Tank. Invite your friends to an evening of science fun and ask the scientists your burning questions. 

About Ask a Scientist:

• $10 registration to participate
• Recommended for guests 18 and over
• Each ticket includes 2 complimentary beverages, including a selection of beer and soft drinks

Directions: The Discovery Tank is located at the back of Hudson River Park's Pier 57. Enter Pier 57 at West 15th Street and walk through the market to the back of the building. Enter the classroom through the double doors.

About the Speakers: 

Joaquim Goes is a Lamont Research Professor at Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University. His research focuses on the physiology and productivity of marine phytoplankton, carbon cycling in the sea, how ocean ecosystems and plankton are responding to climate change, and microplastics in aquatic ecosystems. He works with NASA’s PACE satellite which is deployed to study ocean health and identify types of phytoplankton blooming in the world’s oceans. Dr. Goes works to “sea truth” the satellite’s findings by conducting research cruises and deploying new technologies in waters from the Bay of Bengal to Long Island Sound.

Theodore Muth is a biologist and professor at CUNY’s Brooklyn College, where he researches urban microbes and microbiomes in our soils, waterways and even on subways. He and his lab are currently diving deep into the waters of the lower Hudson River estuary, unlocking the hidden stories of its bacterial communities. By sequencing these microbial populations, they are not only tracking water quality but also uncovering a fascinating connection between microplastics and the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs). Their research sheds light on the unseen impacts of pollution and offers crucial insights into the health of our waterways.